Newfoundland has big plans for aquaculture
Newfoundland and Labrador first developed an aquaculture strategic plan some 13 years ago, and it is time to update this plan according to a provincial government announcement made earlier this week. The announcement included a statement of a “Vision 2018 at a Glance”, which stated that with respect to the salmon aquaculture sector:
The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture is excited to work with all stakeholders toward a new aquaculture strategic plan. The overarching goals of this strategic plan are outlined below as Vision 2018.
Salmonids
• Further expansion and growth of the industry
• Develop and implement a Bay Management Area policy
• Ensure that all provincial salmonid production works towards meeting internationally recognized certification standards
Additional information about the initiative was provided on the Department’s web site:
In 2000, a Newfoundland and Labrador aquaculture provincial strategic plan was jointly developed with industry, community stakeholders and both provincial and federal governments. Further updates were incorporated into the plan in 2002 and 2005 to reflect evolving priorities at the time. The provincial aquaculture industry has changed dramatically since the strategic plan was first developed, growing substantially to become a significant economic driver in some rural regions of the province. Such growth has prompted the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (DFA) to pursue a renewed strategy for the sustainable development of the Newfoundland and Labrador aquaculture industry, over the next five years.
The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture has long recognized the value and importance of engaging the public in strategic planning initiatives. This document is designed to stimulate public feedback by highlighting the progress of the industry and identifying strategic issues relevant to the continued sustainable development of aquaculture in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The government of Newfoundland and Labrador expects that the value of its salmon aquaculture industry will grow from about CAD$ 160 million this year to approximately $275 million by 2017.
